Redshirting an option for CU guard

Redshirting appears to be an option for Colorado redshirt-freshman guard Max Tuioti-Mariner, who is participating in some individual practice drills this week after returning from two ACL surgeries during the past 12 months.

“I know that’s been discussed, with him and by him,” CU offensive line coach Denver Johnson said Wednesday. “It’s a little bit above my pay grade to make that decision. But that is an option, I would think. But that’s not my call, so I’m not sure where that will go.’’

Tuioti-Mariner (6-feet-3 and 285 pounds) earned a starting position by CU’s second game in 2008. But he tore the ACL in his left knee during a noncontact practice drill before game four against Florida State. He tore the ACL in his right knee on March 3 during conditioning drills.

After the first ACL injury, Tuioti-Mariner was granted an injury hardship and thus is an redshirt-freshman this year rather than a sophomore.

Tuioti-Mariner has not yet been cleared for full-speed drills.

“I think a lot of it is where he is and when he gets there,” Johnson said on what will determine whether Tuioti-Mariner redshirts.